Explore the journey of Julie Kent, former American Ballet Theater ballerina turned Artistic Director of The Washington Ballet, in this insightful conversation with Damian Woetzel. Delve into Kent's transition from performer to leader, her vision for the company's future, and the challenges of nurturing dancers and maintaining artistic excellence. Gain valuable insights into the world of ballet, including discussions on iconic productions like The Nutcracker and Giselle, the importance of diversity in dance, and the balance between preserving classical works and creating new ones. Learn about Kent's perspective on American artistry, the universal appeal of dance, and her strategies for engaging the next generation of ballet enthusiasts.